A system of ideas, beliefs, and values that serves as the basis for a political, social, or economic order. The term can also refer to a dogmatic or one-sided worldview.
example
Die Diskussion war stark von politischen Ideologien geprägt.
The discussion was strongly shaped by political ideologies.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word ends in '-logie', which, as in 'Biologie' (biology) or 'Psychologie' (psychology), points to a field of study or system of thought. The first part 'Ideo-' comes from 'Idee' (idea). So an ideology is literally a system of ideas.
EXAMPLE
Jede politische Partei basiert auf einer bestimmten Ideologie.
Every political party is based on a particular ideology.
Typical collocations
'Ideologie' (ideology) is often combined with adjectives that describe the field or orientation. Common combinations are 'politische Ideologie' (political ideology), 'religiöse Ideologie' (religious ideology), or 'radikale Ideologie' (radical ideology).
EXAMPLE
Das Buch analysiert verschiedene politische Ideologien des 20. Jahrhunderts.
The book analyzes various political ideologies of the 20th century.
Register and style
The term 'Ideologie' (ideology) is mainly used in formal, academic, or political discussions. In everyday conversation, it can have a negative meaning and describe a rigid or dogmatic way of thinking.
EXAMPLE
Er warf ihr vor, ihre Entscheidungen seien von reiner Ideologie geleitet.
He accused her of letting her decisions be guided by pure ideology.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Ideologie vs Religion
religion
'die Religion' and 'die Ideologie' can both mean a system of beliefs and values. The most important difference is the reference point: 'Religion' has to do with belief in God, gods, or a higher reality. 'Ideologie' is used more for political, social, or economic ideas about how the world or society should be. The words can be confused because both can strongly guide people. When it is about faith, rituals, and spiritual questions, 'Religion' fits better. When it is about political or social ideas, 'Ideologie' is more precise.
Ideologie
Die Partei erklärt ihre Ideologie in einem kurzen Programm.
The party explains its ideology in a short program.
Religion
Für viele Menschen gibt die Religion ihrem Leben Halt und Orientierung.
For many people, religion gives their life stability and direction.